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Library Assistant Jobs in Ithaca, NY (NOW HIRING)

Cornell University

Human Resources Assistant

Ithaca, NY · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

The Opportunity Reporting to the Library HR Director, the Human Resources Assistant (HR Assistant) provides support for crucial HR functions and activities for the Cornell University Library. The HR ...

Cornell University

E-Resources Assistant

Ithaca, NY · On-site +1

This person has frequent contact with library materials vendors and information providers, library staff, and may also interact with library patrons. The E-Resources Assistant will help plan and ...

Cornell University

Human Resources Assistant

Ithaca, NY · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

The Opportunity Reporting to the Library HR Director, the Human Resources Assistant (HR Assistant) provides support for crucial HR functions and activities for the Cornell University Library. The HR ...

Cornell University

Collections Assistant IV

Ithaca, NY · On-site

Experience in a special collections library, academic library, museum, archives, or historical ... Public Svcs Asst IV Job Family: Library/Museum Level: D Pay Rate Type: Hourly Pay Range: $26.00 ...

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Library Assistant information

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How much do library assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for library assistant in Ithaca, NY is $18.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a library assistant?

Library Assistants are support staff who help ensure the smooth operation of libraries. They assist patrons with finding materials, check books in and out, organize and shelve library items, and help maintain library records. Their duties often include answering basic questions, processing new materials, and supporting librarians in daily tasks. Library Assistants play an important role in making the library a welcoming and organized space for everyone.

What does a Library Assistant do?

Library assistants support the head librarian in operating the library and maintaining its materials. Other responsibilities include cataloging books, movies, audio resources, reference materials, slides, and microfilm. Library assistants inspect these items regularly for damage or missing pieces, especially while they are checking out resources to library patrons. As a library assistant, you must enjoy helping visitors locate materials, as well as providing technical assistance as needed. While a library assistant job does not require education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, job seekers pursuing a career as a librarian will need a master’s degree in library science or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring library science coursework or experience. Familiarity with library cataloging systems, integrated library software (like Koha or Aleph), and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication, and teamwork abilities help Library Assistants effectively support patrons and library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient library operations, ensuring accurate resource management, and providing a welcoming environment for users.

What are some common challenges library assistants face, and how can they effectively handle them?

Library Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of patron requests, maintaining accurate organization of materials, and adapting to new library technologies. To handle these effectively, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, practice clear communication with patrons and colleagues, and stay up to date with library management systems. Regular training and seeking support from senior staff can also help Library Assistants navigate busy periods and technology updates with confidence.

What is the difference between Library Assistant vs Library Technician?

AspectLibrary AssistantLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary courseworkPost-secondary education or certification in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentPublic, school, or academic libraries; routine tasks assisting patrons and organizing materialsMore technical tasks, cataloging, managing digital resources, supporting library systems
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in public and educational libraries; entry-level positionFound in larger libraries, academic institutions, and specialized settings; requires more technical skills

The main difference between a Library Assistant and a Library Technician lies in their responsibilities and required qualifications. Library Assistants handle routine patron service and organization tasks, often with minimal formal education. In contrast, Library Technicians perform more technical duties like cataloging and managing digital resources, requiring additional training or certification. Both roles are essential in supporting library operations, but Library Technicians typically have a higher level of technical expertise and responsibilities.

Can you be a library assistant with no experience?

Library assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills such as organization, communication, and familiarity with library systems or tools can be helpful, but many employers consider entry-level candidates and provide training to develop necessary skills.

How hard is it to get a job as a library assistant?

Getting a job as a library assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience with customer service or administrative tasks. Many positions are entry-level and may not require formal certifications, but familiarity with library systems and good communication skills can improve chances. Competition varies by location and library size, but overall, it is generally accessible for those with the appropriate qualifications.

What degree do I need to be a library assistant?

A library assistant typically does not require a specific degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or coursework in library science or related fields. Strong organizational skills and familiarity with library systems are also beneficial.

What do you do as a library assistant?

A library assistant helps with daily library operations, including checking out and returning books, organizing materials, assisting patrons, and maintaining the library's collection. They often use library management software and may perform clerical tasks or help with events. Strong organizational and customer service skills are important for this role.

What qualifications do you need for a library assistant?

Library assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require basic computer skills and familiarity with library management software; additional certifications are not usually required but can be beneficial.
More about Library Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Library jobs in Ithaca, NY?

The most popular types of Library jobs in Ithaca, NY are:

What job categories do people searching Library Assistant jobs in Ithaca, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Library Assistant jobs in Ithaca, NY are:

What cities near Ithaca, NY are hiring for Library Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ithaca, NY with the most Library Assistant job openings:

Library Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Assistant job openings in Ithaca, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,475 per year, or $18 per hour.

STUDENT-FWS-Finger Lakes Toy Library

Ithaca, NY • On-site

Ithaca College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

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Learn more about Ithaca Collegeexternal

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Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Finger Lakes Toy Library Work-Study Positions

The Finger Lakes Toy Library is seeking work-study students for the 2026–2027 academic year. We currently have two open roles: a front-facing position (Open Hours Host/Playtime Assistant) and an administrative position (Fundraising, Marketing, Data Analysis, Toy Cataloging). Full descriptions for each are below.

Position 1: Fundraising, Marketing, Data Analysis, Toy Cataloging

(Administrative Position)

The Finger Lakes Toy Library is seeking a detail-oriented work-study student for the 2025–2026 academic year! This exciting opportunity focuses on toy inventory management, fundraising, marketing, and data analysis. It allows a student to gain hands-on experience in nonprofit operations, digital cataloging, communications, donor engagement, and impact reporting while supporting a mission that benefits local children and promotes sustainability.

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in nonprofit management, marketing, fundraising, communications, data analysis, childhood development, or community development.

About the Finger Lakes Toy Library

We are a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving quality of life by increasing access to toys, supporting play, and encouraging a culture of reuse and sharing. Play is invaluable to the development and education of children, and we are proud to positively impact our region's children by making high-quality toys accessible to everyone in the community.

Currently, we serve over 420 members and have an inventory of over 1,700 toys, games, and puzzles. In addition to lending toys, we offer regular community playtime programming across the Finger Lakes region.

Work Study Student Responsibilities

  • 1. Inventory Cataloging & Processing
    • Process and catalog incoming donations of toys, games, and puzzles.
    • Photograph items clearly and draft accurate, engaging descriptions.
    • Upload photos and details to our online inventory database so members can browse and borrow them.
  • 2. Marketing & Communications
    • Create and schedule social media content to promote events, share impact stories, and run campaigns.
    • Assist with developing printed materials (e.g., flyers) and support general community outreach efforts.
  • 3. Fundraising & Donor Engagement
    • Conduct research on prospective donors, grant opportunities, and sponsorship leads.
    • Assist the Board with overall fundraising efforts, including business sponsor outreach and the annual appeal.
  • 4. Data & Impact Analysis
    • Track membership data, event attendance, and money saved by members.
    • Analyze data to identify growth opportunities, measure program impact, and prepare summaries or infographics highlighting the Toy Library's reach.

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Attributes: Self-motivated, detail-oriented, organized, and capable of working independently.
  • Skills: Strong writing and communication skills; basic photography and digital editing abilities (e.g., using a smartphone or digital camera to take clear product photos).
  • Interests: An interest in nonprofit operations, collection management, marketing, fundraising, or data analytics.
  • Tools: Familiarity with tools like Canva, Google Suite, Excel, Mailchimp, or database management platforms is desired.
  • Experience: Previous experience in communications, fundraising, data analysis, or database entry is a plus, but not required.

Position Details

  • Time Commitment: 4 hours per week.
  • Flexibility: Hours are flexible, with potential for a hybrid arrangement (note: photo/cataloging duties will require in-person work on-site).
Position 2: Open Hours Host/Playtime Assistant

(Front-Facing Position)

The Finger Lakes Toy Library is seeking a work-study student for the 2026–2027 academic year! This role is an exciting opportunity for a student to benefit local children while gaining valuable experience working with a fast-growing nonprofit.

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in nonprofit work, fundraising, marketing, childhood development, sustainability, and community and social services.

About the Finger Lakes Toy Library

We are a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving quality of life by increasing access to toys, supporting play, and encouraging a culture of reuse and sharing. Play is invaluable to the development and education of children, especially during early childhood. We are proud to positively impact our region's children by making high-quality toys accessible to everyone in the community.

Currently, we serve approximately 430 member families and have an inventory of over 1,700 toys, games, and puzzles.

In addition to lending toys, we offer regular playtimes in locations throughout the community. Playtimes are held in various locations throughout Ithaca and the surrounding areas, including the Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC), Southside Community Center, the Sciencenter, GreenStar Food Co-op, Newfield Public Library, Watkins Glen Public Library, and others.

Work-Study Student Responsibilities

  • Hosting Open Hours: Hosting weekday open hours at the toy library, welcoming families, and managing the circulation desk (checking toys in and out, processing new memberships).
  • Community Playtimes: Assisting with the planning, packing, and hosting of off-site playtime events in Ithaca and surrounding communities during the week.
  • Inventory Management: Cleaning, organizing, photographing, and cataloging our toy collection.
  • Special Projects: Administrative and fundraising tasks based on the student's unique interests and career goals (e.g., donor research, drafting grant components, preparing marketing and outreach materials).

Desired Skills, Experience, and Availability

  • Availability:
    • Required: Weekday availability to host open hours at the toy library and potentially assist with off-site playtime events.
    • Preferred: Potential availability on Saturdays in the future, should scheduling needs shift.
    • Reliability & Accountability: Outstanding reliability and consistent attendance are essential for this role.
    • Traits: Applicants should be welcoming, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently.
    • Experience: Previous experience in customer service, childcare, child development, or working/volunteering with nonprofits is preferred, but not required.

Position Details

  • Commitment: Hours are flexible, with a steady commitment of 6 to 8 hours per week required.

Pay Rate: $17.00 per hour

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